Virginia Deals Rosie’s a Double Defeat, but Amherst Offers a Silver Lining

^{Two VA pari-mutuel referendums failed, but sentiment is growing in Amherst County. (Image: James Guill / ChatGPT)}

Voters in Virginia rejected two pari-mutuel wagering referendums Tuesday, halting plans for additional Rosie’s Gaming Emporium locations. Amherst County and the Town of Pulaski turned down proposals that would have allowed pari-mutuel wagering facilities in their communities.

However, Amherst County's vote was considerably closer than its previous referendum in 2021. With support approaching 50%, could Rosie’s Gaming Emporium eventually make a third attempt to win over Amherst voters?

Virginia Voters Reject Two Pari-Mutuel Referendums

According to the Virginia Department of Elections, both referendums failed during the November 3 general election. Amherst County voters rejected pari-mutuel wagering by a narrow 1.32-percentage-point margin. The Town of Pulaski rejected its proposal, with more than 56% of voters opposed.

The referendums were tied to potential Rosie’s Gaming Emporium locations. Churchill Downs Inc. owns Rosie’s and operates Virginia gaming venues offering slot-style historical horse racing machines, simulcast horse race betting and dining. Unlike traditional slot machines, its gaming machines use the results of previously run horse races to determine wagering outcomes.

In Amherst County, the proposed facility would have been located in the Madison Heights area. The county previously rejected pari-mutuel wagering in 2021.

Supporters had highlighted the potential for additional tax revenue and economic activity, while opponents in both communities raised concerns about gambling and its local effects.

Could Rosie’s Make a Third Attempt in Amherst County?

While Amherst County rejected pari-mutuel wagering for the second time, the results show growing community support.

In 2021, voters rejected the proposal by approximately 54% to 46%. A total of 7,293 residents voted against pari-mutuel wagering, while 6,189 supported it.

Five years later, the margin narrowed to just 1.32 percentage points. Yes votes rose by 685, while no votes dropped to 7,057.

Economic considerations may have played a role in the uptick in support. Supporters promoted the potential for new jobs, tax revenue and additional entertainment options. An economic impact study cited during the campaign estimated that a Rosie’s facility could generate $44 million in regional economic output.

Despite another defeat, the narrower margin raises questions about whether Rosie’s could eventually return with another proposal. Virginia law prohibits the county from holding such a referendum more than once every three years in the same locality. That would make 2029 the earliest year the county could consider another referendum.

A future campaign could build on the increased support shown in 2026, especially if economic pressures continue. Churchill Downs has not announced plans for another Amherst referendum.

I live 30 minutes from Amherst County, and I’ve noticed the shift in sentiment. The electorate in the state is getting younger and views gaming a bit more favorably. I’ve also seen moral objections waning, an important consideration in the Bible Belt. With support already approaching 50%, I could see Amherst County approving a referendum in another three years.

For now, Rosie’s expansion plans in Amherst County remain on hold. But with the latest referendum coming down to such a narrow margin, the debate over pari-mutuel wagering in the county may not be finished.